Typical project management theory suggests that project managers make conflicts appear as early as possible at the start of projects.

It might be counter-intuitive to seek problems and conflict but, a little pain early on certainly beats a lot of pain when you’re neck-deep in a project.

Benefits of making conflicts appear early on can be:

  • Fixing issues before they blow up
  • Planning a little better
  • Anticipating concerns by understanding people’s priorities
  • Knowing what to keep an eye out for
  • Not committing too much if things are bound to implode

Good project management advice but, also good partnership, relationship, life and team building advice…